Lake Garda

With a surface of 370 sq km and a depth of 346 metres, Lake Garda is the biggest and the third-deepest lake of Italy. It extends from Lombardy to Veneto and to the province of Trento (its northernmost part). The lake has an elongated form and tightens up in its northern part where it is surrounded by the mountains of the Gruppo del Baldo.

Of glacial origin, the lake has 25 inlets, including the Sarca and Aril rivers, with the latter being the shortest river in the world, as it has a length of only 175 metres. The only emissary is the Mincio. There are five islands on the lake, with the isola di Garda being the most famous one. The most important winds in this area are the Peler, coming from north and blowing until midday and the Ora del Garda, coming from south and blowing after midday.

The particularly mild climate in the internationally renowned holiday destination makes Mediterranean plants, such as olive trees, palms and lemon trees thrive. The easily accessible beaches, the crystal clear water and the mild temperatures attract people from everywhere. Even Goethe, the great poet, was struck by the beauty of this lake during his Italian journey in 1786.

It is also a popular destination for sport lovers, as it allows them to practice many different kinds of sports, such as windsurfing, mountain biking, sailing, playing golf, climbing, trekking and many more. Some of the most characteristic villages and cities surrounding the lake are Riva del Garda, Arco, Tenno, Torbole, Malcesine, Desenzano, Garda, Sirmione, Lazise and Bardolino.